After four decades in the aviation industry and a significant tenure shaping the San Diego International Airport (SAN), Kimberly J. Becker has announced her retirement as President and Chief Executive Officer of the San Diego County Regional Airport Authority. In a move that signals the end of an era for SAN, Becker's departure comes with both a reflection on her impactful career and a forward look to the future leadership of the airport. "My decision to retire from the Airport Authority brings to close a challenging, fulfilling, and deeply rewarding 40-year career in the aviation industry," Becker expressed, per the San Diego International Airport.
During her time at the helm, which began in 2017, Becker has seen the airport through substantial growth, including navigating the fiscal management and operational oversight, as well as the strategic vision of the Authority. Her efforts have expanded SAN's reach and notably contributed nearly $12 billion annually in economic activity to the San Diego region. Becker's role was pivotal in leading the $3.8 billion New Terminal 1 program, a project to boost the local economy by over $4.5 billion and generate 25,000 jobs.
"She has guided SAN through significant challenges and spearheaded a transformation that will enhance the customer experience for decades to come," SAN Board Chair Gil Cabrera said, per the San Diego International Airport. Under Becker's direction, SAN experienced a significant upturn in passenger growth, peaking at 25 million travelers in 2024, and securing more than $200 million in federal grants for infrastructure in that same year. These achievements underline her role in recovering the airport from historical pandemic lows to substantial revenue growth.
Becker's leadership also brought environmental accolades to SAN, earning it the title of the second-ever carbon-neutral airport in North America. Before her tenure with the Airport Authority, Becker served as Director of Aviation for Mineta San José International Airport, and held roles at the Lockheed Air Terminal and Teterboro Airport. Her contributions have been recognized through multiple accolades, including being named “Woman of the Year” by the San Diego Chapter of Advancing Women in Transportation and receiving the San Diego Chamber of Commerce “Moving San Diego Forward” award.
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